Analysis

Towards a Corruption-Free Sri Lanka to Save Billions

How an Effective Procurement Policy Overhaul Could Rewrite the Nation’s Future and Transform the Nation’s Public and Private Sectors By Jithendra Antonio In a country where corruption has long infiltrated both public and private sectors, Sri Lanka approaches a critical juncture, where decisions today will echo for generations. Embedding a robust procurement system is more…

(0)Comments | November 6, 2024 11:47 am

Central Bank Defends Liquidity Injections Amid “Money Printing” Controversy

by Dhananath Fernando A fresh controversy has erupted following reports that Sri Lanka’s Central Bank (CBSL) injected nearly 100 billion rupees into the banking system by October 25. Given that money printing was the major cause of the country’s financial crisis, this news has sparked considerable attention. CBSL has defended its actions, arguing that these…

(0)Comments | November 5, 2024 4:15 pm

Sri Lanka’s Global Competitiveness at Risk: The Economic Cost of Cargo Clearance Delays

Efficient border agency operations are crucial for any economy, especially for island nations like Sri Lanka, where trade significantly contributes to economic growth. Delays in cargo clearance disrupt the flow of goods, increase costs, and undermine the country’s competitiveness in global trade. These delays impose substantial economic costs that adversely affect Sri Lanka’s GDP, leading…

(0)Comments | November 5, 2024 2:24 pm

Can unknown ‘Socialists’ stabilize the state? – By Prof. Samitha Hettige

President Sirisena told the Chartered Accountants that politicians (elected officials) will rob only if officials (appointed) support. Therefore, the process of appointed blocking the elected robbing & vice versa is necessary. It won’t be tough if existing laws aren’t averted at all times. The ‘buck’ may pass till 2030 general election unless the public reject…

(0)Comments | November 5, 2024 12:27 pm

Turning Global Interest Rate Cycle to Influence Emerging Market Credit Risk

The turn of the global interest-rate cycle, underlined by the US Federal Reserve’s 50bp Federal Funds target rate cut in September, should ease foreign-currency debt-repayment burdens and refinancing challenges for many emerging market (EM) issuers, says Fitch Ratings. Fitch expects the US rate-cutting cycle to be modest compared with historical cycles. However, we still expect…

(0)Comments | November 4, 2024 9:49 am

Sri Lanka could be positioned as a New Haven for Global Talent in a Time of Conflict

By Jithendra Antonio Transforming Conflict into Opportunity for a Thriving Future In a world increasingly fragmented by geopolitical conflict, Sri Lanka has a remarkable opportunity to establish itself as a sanctuary for global talent and displaced professionals. Spanning over 65,000 square kilometers with a GDP of $74 billion at present, this island nation can strategically…

(0)Comments | November 1, 2024 12:57 pm

Market Volatility, Refinancing Risks Persist Despite Rate Cuts

Fitch Ratings: The turn of the global monetary policy cycle this year, with rate cuts in the US, the eurozone and other major economies, has been a significant contributor to investor confidence and a fairly benign global macro and credit environment, Fitch Ratings says in the latest Risk Headquarters report. However, geopolitical and political risks,…

(0)Comments | October 31, 2024 11:08 am

Coconuts are a catalyst for conflict prevention – By Prof. Samitha Hettige

Sri Lankans are known for breaking coconuts wishing destruction of opponents or enemies. However, despite an election in the corner, maybe due to increased price, that practice isn’t common. To address the difficulties faced by the consumers due to high prices, the Coconut Cultivation Board has launched mobile sales trucks providing coconuts to consumers at…

(0)Comments | October 29, 2024 12:05 pm

Business Sentiment: Post-Election Surge in Confidence

The unique index skyrockets to a 42 month high following the presidential poll With a general election on the horizon, Sri Lanka stands at a pivotal point once again, as the country’s future rests in the hands of those who will be elected to govern. Meanwhile, the business community has had its say on the…

(0)Comments | October 28, 2024 1:02 pm

Retro bonds return from the ’80s to speed up debt reworks, but at a cost

Contingent debt instruments used in Zambia, Ukraine, Sri Lanka Instruments will be discussed at IMF World Bank in Washington BIS research shows past instruments have been costly for issuers Reuters – The recent cascade of countries defaulting on their debt has brought back into vogue complex securities – born in the 1980s – that aim…

(0)Comments | October 24, 2024 6:29 am

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